Abstract
The paper examines Hofstede's and Hoecklin's cross cultural models and explains the difference between small power distance and large power distance countries, collectivist and individualist cultures, and feminine and masculine cultures. The paper offers a comparison of 'strong' and 'weak' uncertainty avoidance and provides a table of Hofstede's dimension of cultural scales. The paper briefly discusses how these ratings assist the implementation of leadership strategies in various countries. This paper contains tables.

Outline:
Introduction
Literature Review

From the Paper
"In the country of India, power distance is stated at 75 with individualism stated at 48 and uncertainty avoidance stated at 40. Finally, masculinity is stated at 56 and Long-term orientation stated at 61. The power distance in the country of India is one that is quite large therefore; the culture is characterized by individuals deferring to the authority of others who hold power in the culture. Individualism is stated low therefore management initiative would be in the form of 'group management'. These ratings serve to assist the leader in knowing what to expect when implementing leadership strategies in the various countries with a diverse range of affecting variables."

Tags:power, distance, collectivism, individualism, femininity, masculinity

Abstract
The paper highlights the important role cultural dimensions play in a business' selection of merger and acquisition candidates. The paper then looks at and explains Hofstede's cultural dimensions as a framework for evaluating cultural variations across cultures around the globe. The paper also discusses how for any operations strategy to be successful, it must not only focus on the cultural components but must also focus on those that provide for process efficiency, integration and long-term scalability.

Outline:
Introduction
Hofstede's Cultural Dimensions as a Framework for Evaluating Cultural Variations

From the Paper
"Just as organizations must have concerted, synchronised operations strategies globally to capitalize on new market opportunities, production efficiencies emanating from localized expertise (Ferdows, 2006) or the potential for greater market share based on mergers and acquisitions, they must also create strategies to enable cultural congruence and compatibility. Too often however these strategies for attaining cultural assimilation are blinded by ethnocentrically-based perspectives and processes (Hammond, Axelrod, 2006). Arguably the latter is even more critical, as for any operational strategy to succeed it must take into account the many cultural dimensions that its influences, and that influence it as well. With increased globalization it has often been argued that there is a flattening of the world's cultures, a homogenizing if you will, yet evidence suggests that strategies executed without regard to cultures very often fail."

Tags:power, distance, individualism, masculinity, uncertainty, avoidance

Abstract
The paper discusses the relevance of the Cultural Revolution and pays attention to its indication of how the CCP regime was just as indifferent to the individual as previous Chinese governments. The paper reveals that a million people were affected by events stemming from Mao's play for power, internal politics within the CCP and the demonization of educated Chinese. The paper explains that a result has been anarchical attitudes towards all government, citizens' low expectations of the regime and a distancing of social groups that continues to take new non-socialist forms. Lastly, the paper notes that many who were affected by the CR as children have left China or turned their back on the social mainstream.

From the Paper
"This paper discusses the Cultural Revolution of 1966-1976 in relation to very old dynamics of Chinese society that favour the state or the society, ahead of the individual. Through centuries, Confucianism suggested that inequality was a natural condition that could increase social cohesion if citizens worked to respect the proper relationships affecting their lives. While the Communist movement glorified removing an old corrupt order, in a few years a new Chinese hierarchy was becoming plain with the rise of a bureaucrat-official class to replace the Confucian official class of old."

Tags:china, cultural rev, individual

Abstract
This paper discusses the concept of psychic distance, which, according to the paper, has become a much-utilized term in international business and one of the key ingredients in determining the right markets for entry. The paper first shows how researchers have not yet developed a consistent approach with reliable variables for developing a psychic distance strategy. The then paper discusses Hofstede's five cultural elements that impact psychic distance but explains the many different variables that must also be considered at different stages of the relationship's development. The paper concludes that the most important aspect for businesses to keep in mind when they are attempting to put together a cross-cultural strategic plan is that they have to focus on their own, specific situation.

From the Paper
"The natural occurrence of globalization is bringing the world increasingly closer together through the exchange of culture, products and services, information, and knowledge. Over the last several decades, the speed of this global connection has become much greater, because of continual technology, communications, and science advancements. Research has recognized that within this global interaction, countries will begin the internationalization process with some nations that are called "psychically close" before venturing to more distant countries at a psychic distance. This concept of psychic distance significantly impacts cross-cultural business ventures. However, researchers have not yet developed a consistent approach with reliable variables for developing a psychic distance strategy. Recently, the only agreement point is that a number of different variables, besides Hofstede's cultural factors, impact psychic distance. Businesses have to look at their own particular parameters to determine the best way of proceeding at each stage of the cross-cultural relationship development."

Tags:Hofstede, culture, relationship, marketing, international, business

Abstract
The paper identifies the relative importance of the various elements of psychic distance, at each of the stages of the process of cross-cultural business relationship development. The paper analyzes the various stages of business relationship development and discusses the different types and elements of psychic distance that must be taken into account. Finally, the paper provides an analysis and evaluation of the relative importance of each psychic distance element in formulating strategies for international expansion. The paper concludes that the concept of psychic distance can help companies identify opportunities for creating strategic alliances and relationships with foreign companies to their mutual benefit, while avoiding the pitfalls and hazards typically associated with such international expansion efforts.

Outline:
Introduction
Stages of Process of Business Relationship Development
Types and Elements of Psychic Distance
Analysis and Evaluation of Relative Importance of Each Element
Conclusion

From the Paper
"The developmental phases that occur during expansion into foreign markets reported in many models of internationalization also suggest that companies perform best in foreign markets that are most similar to their domestic market (Johanson and Vahlne, 1977; Nordstrom and Vahlne, 1994). In this regard, Evans and Mavondo (2002) cite research by Nordstrom and Vahlne (1994) that determined the perceived negative relationship between psychic distance and organizational performance is attributed to the fact that psychically close countries are easier to learn about and understand. In spite of the widespread acknowledgement concerning a negative relationship between psychic distance and organizational performance, though, the existing body of knowledge remains nebulous in this regard (Evans and Mavondo, 2002)."

Tags:commitment, trust, regulations, politics

Abstract
In this paper, an outline will define the current policies that define a national process in which distance learning can be developed in South Africa. By addressing the need for adequate teacher training in remote regions of the country, policies will be designed to help a more sovereign and united cultural environment for students at all levels.

From the Paper
Thank you for purchasing a customized research paper from Essay Experts LLC. We strive to deliver to our customers the most accurate and up-to-date research each and every time we prepare a custom work. Your Writer ID: #255 Order ID: 16277 Topic: Education Disclaimer: This document should be used in precisely the same way you would use any article you might find in your local research library. Remember, you must cite it properly just like you would any other source listed in your bibliography. If you have any questions regarding citing

Tags:labor, education, south

Abstract
This paper explains Hofstede's cultural dimension theory and describes the dimensions, which measure constructs of power distance, individualism, individualistic society, masculinity and uncertainty avoidance. The paper points out that these cultural dimensions are a barometer of an organization's culture especially in multinational companies. The paper applies this theory to evaluating the marketing and management practices at Wal-Mart and Tesco.

Table of Contents;
Introduction
Shared Values Segmentation and Cultural Dimensions
Cultural Dimensions and Competitiveness
Pricing Strategies and Cultural Dimensions
Emergence of Cultural Intelligence and Trust as the Lasting Differentiator
Cultural Intelligence leading to Trust: The Foundation of Differentiation
Cultural Dimensions Leading to Values-Based Differentiation
Tesco's Retail Internationalization Process based on Cultural Intelligence
Quantifying Values as Differentiators: A Research Perspective
Attaining the role of Trusted Advisor in Served Markets
Conclusion

From the Paper
"Overall, the research on organizational values suggests that a researcher must rely on the value expressions or enacted values of people and organizations. In essence, organizational values are reflected in organizational practices. Research in this area has been undertaken either through qualitative studies involving one or a few organizations or through quantitative, survey-based studies involving a larger number of organizations. In most cases, though, reviews have focused on content or text analysis to identify the espoused or desired values and on surveys to determine the enactment of those values."

Tags:differentiator international, trust-based segmentation, pricing strategy, relationships

Abstract
This paper argues that providing access to education in poor regions stimulates the economies and provides the population with technological tools. The paper examines how distance education has been integral to promoting economic growth and development in China, Brazil and Korea. The paper also notes two strengths of the Chinese system; it is highly centralized and efficient, and also accounts for regional differences such as language and culture. In addition, the paper looks at the role of wealthy nations and global trade agencies in ensuring equal access to education, and contends that distance education has not yet reached its full potential in helping poor countries catch up to their wealthier counterparts.

From the Paper
"Distance education is already proving itself to be a valuable resource in developing nations like Brazil and China. Moore & Kearsley (2005) note the role of distance education in providing poor citizens in the hinterlands of large nations with access to modern educational tools and curriculum. The national systems of distance education like those in China, Brazil, and Korea remain focused on the immediate economic and labor market needs. Distance education could take its role one step further in developing nations to help citizens become more competitive on the global market."

Tags:China, Korea, Brazil, globalization, training, labor

Abstract
The paper applies Hofstede's cultural analysis to Italy and finds that great emphasis is placed on individualism, masculinity, and uncertainty avoidance, while power distance ranks considerately lower than others. The paper discusses the soft drink market in Italy and the best approach for an American company to enter the market. The paper also addresses Italy's political system, the characteristics of Italian consumers and Italian law regarding distribution and agency agreements.

From the Paper
"When comparing the culture of Italy with the culture of the United States they are somewhat alike. Although each has its differences there would be a low need for customization of content within the culture. This is can be determined by looking at Hofstede's classification scheme. The Power Distance Index (PDI) is the extent to which the less powerful members of organizations and institutions accept and expect that power be distributed unequally. It proposes that a society's level of inequality is sanctioned by the followers as much as by the leaders. Power and inequality are seen as being extremely fundamental facts of any society and those with international experience will be aware that all societies are unequal, but some are more unequal than others. (Geert Hofstede(TM) Cultural Dimensions, 2009)
"Individualism (IDV) consists of one side versus its opposite. On the individualist side one finds societies in which the ties between individuals are loose: everyone is expected to look after their self and their own family. On the collectivist side, one find societies in which people from birth onwards are integrated into strong, extended families which continue protecting them in exchange for absolute loyalty. (Geert Hofstede(TM) Cultural Dimensions, 2009"

Tags:individualism, masculinity, uncertainty, avoidance, power, distance, soft, drink, market

From the Paper
"THE RELEVANCE OF HOFSTEDE S MODEL TO THE CONTEMPORARY MANAGEMENT OF INTERCULTURAL COMMUNICATIONS

Introduction

This research examines the relevance of Geert Hofstede s model of cultural variability to the contemporary management of intercultural communications. Hofstede was prompted to explore differences in managerial decision-making behavior because of the growing internationalization of business. In the 1990s, the trend is increasingly toward the development of international markets. Accordingly, it is incumbent on multinational corporations to acquire the knowledge, and develop the expertise which will permit them to develop marketing strategies for functioning in a variety of cultural environments. Successful multinational corporations in the 1990s will not be able to ..."